When you get sick with a cold or flu, do you go to the doctor and ask them to give you something  usually an antibiotic  to make you better?

Given the World Health Organization has identified antibiotic resistance as one of the greatest threats facing human health, you might want to rethink this approach. (For more on superbugs and antibiotic resistance check out: What are superbugs?)

Professor Peter Collignon is a professor of infectious diseases and microbiology at the Australian National University, with an active research interest in antibiotic resistance and infection control.

In his view, we all have a role in protecting ourselves from catching superbugs and preserving the use of antibiotics for future generations. Here are his tips for how to do this:

Wash your hands

Washing your hands frequently  especially before and after you eat, or after you go to the toilet  can limit the transfer of bacteria that cause superbugs and also prevent the spread of infections.

The idea is you want to wash any bacteria from your hands before you bring them into contact with your eyes, nose or mouth. You also want to avoid spreading bacteria you may be carrying. Washing your hands will help to reduce your chances of spreading bacteria directly to others, which you do through physical contact, or by touching inanimate objects, such as door handles, taps and hand rails.

Using regular soap and water or alcohol rub will clean your hands and limit the spread of disease.

Maintain your immunity

Your body is best able to fight off infections when you are at your most healthy.

When your immune system is compromised you leave yourself open to the risk of serious infections because you are not strong enough to combat any attacks.

The best ways to maintain your immunity include ensuring your vaccinations are up-to-date and seeking medical attention when you need it. But taking care of yourself by eating nutritious food, getting enough sleep and exercise, and avoiding stress all help to keep you in good shape.

Don't overuse antibiotics

Antibiotics are only effective against bacterial infections, yet more than half of all antibiotics are unnecessarily given to people with infections caused by viruses such as colds and flu. Pressure from patients plays a role in this.

When antibiotics are used in people who don't need them this increases resistance and leads to the development of superbugs.

Check with your doctor if you really need antibiotics if you are offered them. And don't pressure your doctor for an antibiotic script if he or she thinks it will make little difference to your recovery.

Be wary of medical tourism

While receiving medical treatment overseas may be quicker and cheaper than in Australia, you need to be aware of the risk of infections in hospitals in developing countries. These countries have higher rates of superbugs compared with those in Australia.